Since its official reveal at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, the 2013 Ford Fusion has become one of the most anticipated midsize sedan models. The 2013 model's Aston-inspired styling makes its conservatively-penned predecessor, as well as many other models in the class look positively pedestrian. Now, with the official online configurator for the 2013 Ford Fusion live (as opposed to the tentative configurator we reported on previously), we have some idea of the price of admission to get into this classy-looking sedan.

The Fusion S model, with the 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder and mandatory six-speed automatic transmission starts at $22,495. Although basic, even the entry-level Fusion offers Sync with MyFord (but not Touch), which includes AppLink and Bluetooth hands-free calling, remote locks, and driver and front passenger knee airbags and side curtain airbags.Clicking most available option boxes on the fuel-sipping 2013 Fusion Hybrid brings the total to $36,010, and loading up a Fusion Titanium AWD with 19-inch wheels, leather, MyFord Touch, and most of the other available goodies got us to $38,756. That price spread from top to bottom spans more than $16,000. Not an insubstantial range, but less gaping than some other models that can more than double in price from lowest to highest trim.

The mid-range SE model, which is available with all three of the non-hybrid engine options, the 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated model, the 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter EcoBoost engines starts at $24,495 with the 2.5, with the 2.0 EcoBoost starting at $26,745. The 1.6-liter EcoBoost model holds the distinction of being the only Fusion model available with a six-speed manual transmission. The row-your-own Fusion SE starts at $26,290. If you're curious what the price would be on your own custom-configured 2013 Ford Fusion, check out the online configurator here.View our complete 2013 Ford Fusion First Test right here.

I was a little disappointed in the peformance of the 240 HP 1.6 with regards to its 0-60 time. It is certainly behind the v6's, particularly the new Accord which is in the high 5's. I am really perplexed as to why auto makers are switching to turbo 4's as opposed to efficient 6's and I have a feeling that it has to do more with cost then actual EPA numbers. I have also, from both my own experience and from that of others, come to the conclusion that the real life EPA #'s of Turbo 4's are much worse than estimated. I recently bought a Regal GS, and though I do have a bit of a lead foot, my EPA mileage is currently at 16 MPG. The performance is good: There is very limited Turbo lag, but I think a V6, in the end, might actually end up more fuel efficient and perform better. We will see if other consumers feel this way, and if this effects the automakers choices for the future. I suspect most probably do not keep track of their MPG anyway.

31K represents the average cost of a car these days, so I do not think one could call it excessive anymore. Cars will also easily last you 10 years now, so if you keep it maintained, you will have it for a decade.

I want one, but I think I will wait for the second production year because I do not want to for end up taking it back to the dealer cause of a stupid recall!!
Love ford but keeping it real!! This better not be recalled like the new escapes minor recalls but still!!

I think these are the kind of the cars ford needs to keep making to be one fo the top automakers. The taurus the edge the fusion the explorer these are all just great world class cars. I wont even bother cross shopping this with any boring japenese rival. I'm sold.

From what I read Ford still owns about 9% of Aston Martin, so the styling ques are modest at the least. They would be copying if they designed the exact same part from a company they have no relations with.

Looks like a Bigger Focus. The new Escape looks like a " Focus SUV ". And supposedly the new Mustang is taking the Focus/Fusion look. All of Ford's vehicles are starting to look the same without much difference except in size and the amount of doors. Too much Aston in the grill on this one !

Has there ever been a more over-hyped car than the 2013 Fusion? How on earth will it live up to its billing??
AUTOWEEK did have a reveiw of one recently that gave it excellent marks ... with that said, there will be plenty of naysayers that carry on about it's pricing ....
Please be sure to look at all midsize car websites and price those as well ... they can all be quite expensive ...